We had the good fortune of connecting with Victor Irizarry and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Victor, how has your work-life balance changed over time?
Over the years, my perspective on balancing work and life has evolved significantly. Earlier, when I was younger, I used to think of work-life balance as maintaining a strict division between professional responsibilities and personal time. However, after experiencing burnout back in 2018, I realized that this rigid separation wasn’t sustainable or fulfilling. At the time I did not understand what was happening to me or had the tools to deal with mental health awareness.

Today, after many years of conscious change, I view it as “work-life harmony” rather than balance. Much like conducting an orchestra, I see each part of my life—work, family, friends, and health—as different instruments that, when played together, create a beautiful, coherent melody. I’m committed to giving my 100% to everything I do, and I believe that being fully present in the moment is key to harmonizing these different aspects. This approach has not only helped me recover from burnout but also enriched my overall quality of life, allowing me to thrive both professionally and personally.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I grew up in a small town in Puerto Rico, where resources were limited for me and my family, but dreams were boundless. From an early age, I was captivated by the power of storytelling and the magic of imagination—a passion that eventually led me to create my brand, “vodlines.” This brand isn’t just a name; it’s the embodiment of a dream realized, a testament to the power of persistence and creativity.

My professional journey has been anything but easy. Moving to Arizona to pursue my Master’s in Architecture as a Latino with limited English presented a host of challenges. I faced language barriers and cultural misunderstandings, and there were moments when my accent and background made me feel out of place. However, each obstacle only deepened my resolve. I learned to embrace my heritage and use my unique perspective as a strength, transforming hardships into opportunities for growth and creative expression.

Today, I am proud to say that my work—whether through art, architecture, improv shows or comic books—transcends time and cultural boundaries. I pour my heart into every project, driven by my belief that creativity can inspire anyone, regardless of their background. My favorite word is “imagination,” and it is at the core of everything I do. I want my art to serve as a beacon of hope and encouragement, showing kids and dreamers everywhere that it’s possible to overcome adversity and chase their dreams with relentless passion.

In sharing my story, I want the world to know that success is built on overcoming challenges and embracing every part of your identity. “Vodlines” is a celebration of this journey—a reminder that no matter where you come from, your dreams are valid and achievable.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Imagine kicking off an unforgettable week-long adventure by driving up to the top of South Mountain in Phoenix, where the breathtaking aerial view sets the stage for everything to come. As someone passionate about design and architecture, I’d love to showcase Phoenix’s unique urban vibe next. We’d start with a visit to the iconic Burton Barr Library in downtown Phoenix—an architectural gem that seamlessly blends form and function.

From there, we’d immerse ourselves in art at the Phoenix Art Museum, exploring a mix of classic and contemporary works that fuel the creative spirit. Mid-morning, we’d take a relaxing break at Lola Coffee or Cartel, enjoying a perfectly crafted cup of coffee and soaking in the local atmosphere.

In the afternoon, we’d experience the natural beauty of Arizona by strolling along Tempe Town Lake and exploring the serene Botanical Gardens, where the vivid life of the Sonoran Desert comes to life. As the day winds down, we’d stop by Shop Inc. for a refreshing beer, perhaps enjoy my favorite local IPA beer called “Church Music”, and cap the evening off with a taste of authentic Carne Asada Tacos at Taco Chelo. We definitely need to explore the improv comedy scene in Phoenix. We will catch a show at Second Beat Improv Theatre in Phoenix or The Neighborhood Comedy Theatre in Mesa or The Bridge Improv Comedy Theatre in Tempe. These theaters are all great places to enjoy a good laugh with friends and family.

For the rest of the week, I’d plan a road trip that celebrates Arizona’s diverse landscapes. We’d venture to the Grand Canyon via the I-17 stopping at Arco Santi and Montezuma Castle, taking in unique architectural experiments along the way, then explore the mystical red rocks of Sedona and the charming town of Flagstaff. This journey is all about showcasing the incredible range of Arizona—from its urban sophistication to its vast, awe-inspiring natural beauty.

This itinerary isn’t just a travel plan; it’s a curated experience meant to capture the spirit of Arizona and share a little piece of my world. It reflects my love for creativity, design, and storytelling, inviting you to experience a blend of art, nature, and culinary delights that truly defines the best of this region.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I’d like to dedicate this shoutout to my family—the foundation of my strength and inspiration. My wife, Sarah Irizarry, and my two incredible boys, Donovan Castillo and Xander Irizarry, continually motivate me to be my best. I’m also deeply grateful to my mom, Haydee Martinez, my brother, Hiram Herrera, and my sister, Wanda Herrera, for their unwavering love and support. Each of them holds a special place in my journey, constantly reminding me of what truly matters in life: love and connection

Website: https://www.vodlines.com

Instagram: @vodlines

Image Credits
Photographer of headshots: Ian Cahill,
Instagram is PrecisionphotographyAZ

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